Face It

First, what is non-invasive dermatology? We’re talking about non surgical procedures most often administered by dermatologists or plastic surgeons. They include botox, laser resurfacing, derma abrasion, collagen and filler injections, to name a few. They provide immediate results and are not permanent. They are less expensive and less dramatic than plastic surgery. So, who are these procedures for? ……

There are many women who aren’t looking for dramatic changes in their appearance. They are looking for ways to improve their looks, appear healthier and rested without radically changing how they look. They don’t want to look twenty years younger. They want to look the best they can at their own age. They want to take control over the uneasy, out of control feelings that come with the increasing changes they see on their faces. They’re not trying to compete with younger women. They’re proud to have reached the age they are and feel as good as they do and now they want to look as young as they feel. Just as these women have come to take for granted that coloring their hair makes them feel good, these women want solutions for their aging skin that also make them feel good. So, where is the slippery slope?

First of all, remember that aging is continuous and inevitable. No procedure stops the clock. Once you start these processes they require constant up keep. Up keep costs money and takes time. Botox, for example, lasts about three months, and fillers, about a year. And we’ve yet to meet a woman who hasn’t wanted to continue once she likes what she sees. Not only does she want more of the same, but one procedure often leads to another. The way a newly painted room makes the furniture in it look older, so does a wrinkle free forehead make crow’s feet seem more pronounced. And when wrinkles return bringing a woman’s face/neck/body back to its original state, she notices them more than ever.

So, can you take advantage of these procedures and avoid the slippery slope? Look at it this way, would you go up a high mountain and ski down without knowing the terrain, without knowing if there is an end in sight or if you can make it down safely? Do we have evidence yet that repeated dermatological procedures are healthy for your skin? What about women who start these in their thirties, or twenties? Imagine over 200 injections of botox or 400 fillers in a life time? We’ve heard of teens encouraged by dermatologists to avoid wrinkles by never getting them in the first place. Do we know if the elasticity and health of your skin can tolerate long term non surgical dermatological procedures?

We believe women need to know more and think carefully before they engage in any “age defying” procedures, dermatological or surgical. These may bring you great pleasure, just as the ski slope might for a skier who knows how to make good choices. When it comes to your face, your body and your aging process, be smart, be thoughtful and you’ll be more beautiful. Tell us what you think. — Dr. Vivian and Dr. Jill